UK Government’s 2023 Environment plan does not ban wood burning stoves
| Following the recent publication of the UK Government’s 2023 Environment Plan, there has been some confusion and misinformation surrounding domestic wood burning. However, we can confirm that wood burning stoves are not going to be banned.The Environment Plan, which is the first of the five-yearly revisions of the 25 Year Environment Plan, outlines ten core environmental goals, including Clean Air, aiming to reduce air pollution by lowering particulate levels.As Professional Chimney Sweeps, we fully support the Environment Plan and the efforts to improve the health of the natural environment in Britain. Modern stoves from the established brands have improved in efficiency and are cleaner burning appliances, meeting CE marking and DEFRA approval standards.So, if you’re a fan of using your log burner, you can continue to do so without worry. The government’s focus is on reducing air pollution, and we applaud their efforts towards a cleaner and healthier environment for all. ProSweep Strongly Supports UK Government’s Environment Plan for Clean AirProSweep, as Professional Chimney Sweeps, fully supports the UK Government’s 2023 Environment Plan’s, particularly in terms of Clean Air. We welcome the bans on common house coal and fuels with a high sulphur content, as well as the restrictions on the sale of wet wood.Unauthorised smoky fuels and inefficient open fires have been causing air pollution problems for decades. Open fires produce ten times the particulate matter that a modern, Ecodesign stove does, according to the SIA. We believe that using authorised fuel, a modern appliance, and a skilled HETAS installer are crucial in reducing emissions and maintaining a clean and healthy environment. |
| Will Wood Burning Stoves Be Banned? Here’s What You Need to KnowThere has been confusion regarding the impact of the UK Government’s 2023 Environment Plan on wood burning stoves. However, we can confirm that your log burner will not be banned.The Environment Plan recognises that some households rely on solid fuel burning as a primary source for heating and cooking. As long as you comply with local smoke restrictions, you can continue to use your current stove without any issues.That being said, if you have an older stove, upgrading to a modern Clear Skies or Ecodesign appliance is recommended. These newer stoves are more efficient, and the levels of pollutants they produce are considerably less than older stoves. |
| Four Simple Habits for Cleaner BurningTo minimize our impact on air quality when owning and using a log burner, there are several things we can do. As one committed to a sustainable future, ProSweep encourage all our customers to adopt the right habits and actions that can contribute to reducing air pollution positively. Always burn seasoned, dry wood or approved smokeless mineral fuels – poor quality, wet wood has a high moisture content, which results in poor combustion and the production of harmful emissions. Look for wood with a moisture content between 14-20% for an optimal burn. As the new Environmental Improvement Plan states, “Burning a dry log can reduce emissions by 50% compared to a log which has not been dried” Consider upgrading to a Clear Skies or Ecodesign appliance if you have an old model. In the UK, all newly manufactured stoves must meet these high standards, burning more cleanly and producing fewer emissions. This upgrade can be compared to the difference between a modern car and a 20-year-old vehicle that can barely pass an MOT! Ensure your stove is the correct size for your environment – a 5kW stove operating at 2kW will not burn at optimal clean burning temperatures, and will produce more pollution as a result. |
| I do hope that this statement has cleared up any confusion or concerns regarding the Environment Plan’s impact on wood burning stoves. As always, I am happy to answer any questions or provide further information on the matter. |
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